Figures published by National Records for Scotland revealed that five drug related deaths were recorded in Argyll and Bute Council area in 2013 — a drop of more than 50 per cent since 2011.

In contrast, the figures revealed that deaths involving so-called ‘legal highs’ had more than doubled nationally, with local drug rehabilitation support services saying this is an issue ‘everywhere’.

Two of five drug-related deaths were caused by heroin/morphine, and the others were as a result of methadone, ecstasy, and amphetamines.

The slight trend downwards reflects the national results, with a drop of nine per cent to 526 drug related deaths.

Reacting to the figures, Mike Tweddle, the manager of Helensburgh Addiction Rehabilitation Team (HART), said any decrease in drug-related deaths was ‘always wonderful’.

He added that the recovery group has been expanding in recent year with more classes – including cookery lessons – seminars, and counselling for residents affected by drugs and alcohol.

Despite the decrease in the number of drug-related deaths – both locally and nationally – the figures for Scotland also revealed the number of deaths involving so-called ‘legal highs’ more than doubled in a year.

There were 113 deaths in 2013 where New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) were present, compared with 47 in 2012.

Mr Tweddle said legal highs are not just an issue for big cities, with an increase problem of people using these types of substances locally.

“This is an issue all over the place,” he said. Mr Tweddle added that it is a difficult issue to tackle due to the constantly changing nature of the drugs.

“It’s about awareness and education because people are coming up with new drugs all the time, they almost change from week to week. It tends to be people up to the age of about 30 that we see who use them, and it tends to be people with access to some money because you often have to buy them online and you may need a credit card - they can be expensive.” NHS Highland spokesman said there is a number of addiction teams based across Argyll and Bute to those in need of help.

He added: “An individual affected by addiction can be referred to these local teams by another professional service such as a GP, social worker and the criminal justice team.

“The individual will treated in confidence and are able to access a wide range of services including psychological support, detoxification, substitute providing programmes and planning lifestyle changes.” Visit www.helensburghrehab.org.uk/ for more information about services and help available.